In a world often defined by struggle and inequality, stories of transformation and hope remind us that extraordinary achievements can emerge from the most humble beginnings. One such story capturing national attention in Nigeria is that of Ahmad Isa, a former barefoot almajiri boy from Kano State who conquered tremendous odds to graduate from a Nigerian federal university and complete his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme — a milestone that has inspired many across the nation.
A Humble Beginning on the Streets of Dutse
The story begins in the streets of Dutse, Jigawa State, where a young boy from Gaya Local Government Area of Kano State wandered barefoot, living as an almajiri — a traditional Islamic pupil who often survives by begging or doing menial jobs while studying the Qur’an. For many almajiri children in northern Nigeria, life is marked by hardship, poverty and limited access to formal education; they are frequently overlooked in broader national educational advancement discussions.
Unlike many children in his situation, however, Ahmad did not simply surrender to the challenges of his environment. Instead of begging, he spent his early years running errands and working in people’s homes to support himself, attending Islamiyya school before and after daily chores. This early resilience would become a defining theme throughout his journey.
A Chance Encounter That Changed Everything
The turning point in Ahmad’s life came through a chance meeting with Mr. Alan Maiyaki, a federal government civil servant originally from Edo State who was posted to Dutse. Deeply moved by Ahmad’s humility, sincerity, and desire to learn, Mr. Maiyaki made a life-altering decision: he took the boy under his wing, enrolling him in formal education and committing to sponsor his academic journey.
Under Mr. Maiyaki’s guidance and support, Ahmad transitioned from his informal life on the streets to a structured educational path:
- Primary School at a public institution in Dutse
- Secondary School with strong academic performance
- University Admission through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination
- A Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminology and Security Studies from Federal University Dutse with a Second Class Upper — an impressive academic achievement by any standard.
Mr. Maiyaki didn’t just fund Ahmad’s school fees; he also served as a mentor who encouraged him to apply himself academically and uphold the belief that education could transform his destiny.
From Graduate to National Service: A Journey of National Pride
Ahmad’s academic triumph culminated in his participation in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) — Nigeria’s mandatory one-year national service programme for university graduates. In December 2025, he proudly completed his NYSC in Zaria, Kaduna State, officially earning his NYSC certificate and marking the formal conclusion of his academic and national service journey.
His story resonates deeply because it shows a full arc of transformation — from a barefoot child without material support to a respected graduate serving his nation in khaki uniform. It illustrates not just educational success, but personal perseverance, national service, and social mobility.
Skills Beyond the Classroom: Tailoring a Future
But Ahmad’s growth wasn’t limited to textbooks and exams. While studying, he also learned the skill of tailoring — a practical trade that today supports his livelihood. Now a tailor with his own shop in Hakimi Street, Dutse, Ahmad mentors five apprentices, sharing not just economic opportunity but the message that success can come from both academic and vocational mastery.
His ability to balance academic rigour with practical skill-building underscores a crucial lesson: educational success isn’t defined solely by degrees, but also by the capacity to thrive and contribute meaningfully in everyday life.
Unity in Diversity: A Tale That Transcends Boundaries
Beyond individual achievement, Ahmad’s story has become a symbol of national unity and cross-cultural compassion. His benefactor, Mr. Maiyaki, exemplifies how unity and empathy can transform lives — bridging regional, ethnic and cultural divides in a country that continues to navigate complex social dynamics.
In a nation where diverse cultures and religions sometimes struggle to find common ground, their relationship serves as a beacon of unity and human solidarity.
